Asclepias subulata

Asclepias subulata Decne.

Rush milkweed, Desert milkweed, Ajamete

Synonym(s):

Mature plants of this species are striking in appearance with many leafless stems rising from a single root crown with a density similar to that of horsetails. Like many desert perennials, this shrubby, leafless milkweed bears leaves only after rain. The greenish-white, 3-4 1/2 ft. stems occur in clusters. Whitish-green flowers bloom in terminal clusters and are followed by narrow, milkweed pods.

Growing Conditions

Benefit

Use Wildlife: Forage source for the Monarch and Striated Queen Butterflies. Warning: All plants in the genus Asclepias are probably somewhat toxic, some fatally so, to both humans and animals. The sap of some causes skin irritation in humans. Sensitivity to a toxin varies with a person’s age, weight, physical condition, and individual susceptibility. Children are most vulnerable because of their curiosity and small size. Toxicity can vary in a plant according to season, the plant’s different parts, and its stage of growth; and plants can absorb toxic substances, such as herbicides, pesticides, and pollutants from the water, air, and soil. Attracts: Butterflies